89:38-45 Next Ethan recounted what God had permitted to overtake David. He was now weak and defeated rather than being strong and successful. God had apparently cut David off and gone back on His promises. The fall of Jerusalem is probably in view, and the Davidic king would have been Jehoiachin.
89:46-52 Ethan called on God to remember David and His promises before the king died. In conclusion he reaffirmed his belief in God's loyal love and faithfulness (v. 49). However, he asked God to remember His servants and His anointed before long (vv. 50-51). All the psalmist could do was wait for God to answer.
Verse 52 concludes Book 3 of the Psalter (Pss. 73-89).
When God seems to be acting contrary to His character and promises, the godly should remember that He is loyal and faithful. They should call on Him to act for His own glory and for the welfare of His people. However, they must remember that appearances can often be deceiving as they were in this case. God was disciplining David. He had not cut him off.
